Comfort Food Lasagna Bake

Name: Comfort Food Lasagna Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Rustic Meals

I absolutely love making this Comfort Food Lasagna Bake because it brings warm, cozy vibes to any gathering or family dinner. The layers of rich pasta, zesty marinara, and gooey cheese create a delightful experience for your taste buds. It’s a dish that always makes everyone feel right at home, and I can’t help but dig in! Plus, it’s relatively simple to prepare, so I often whip it up on busy weeknights when comfort food is a must.

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:09:36.908Z

Every time I make this Comfort Food Lasagna Bake, I’m transported back to my childhood, where family dinners were all about hearty, homemade dishes. The aroma of the sauce bubbling away and the cheese melting perfectly is something I cherish. I’ve learned that allowing the bake to rest after cooking really enhances the flavors, making each bite even more satisfying.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different ingredients, and I’ve found that using a mix of cheeses gives it that extra oomph. Trust me, going the extra mile with the cheese blend will elevate your lasagna like no other!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Layers of savory flavors that truly satisfy
Creamy cheese goodness that stretches with every bite
Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients

      

Mastering the Layers

The beauty of this Comfort Food Lasagna Bake lies in its layered construction. Each layer serves a specific purpose that contributes to the overall taste and texture. When layering, start with a thin base of meat sauce to prevent the noodles from sticking. This initial layer also creates a flavorful backdrop that enhances the rest of the dish. Remember to spread the ricotta mixture evenly to avoid dry spots and ensure every bite is creamy and rich.

It’s essential to let the layers build upon each other with care. When adding the mozzarella, be generous but not excessive; a third of the total amount at each layer provides a good stretch without overpowering the dish. By the time you reach your last layer, the cheese will melt into the meat and sauce, creating a delightful golden crust on top. This crust not only adds texture but is also an eye-catching feature when serving.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of meat is vital in your lasagna bake. Ground beef lends a hearty flavor, while Italian sausage adds a touch of spice. For a lighter option or to accommodate dietary preferences, consider using ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles. Keep in mind that if you choose turkey, seasoning is key; it tends to be drier and less flavorful than beef or sausage. Adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture can enhance the flavor profile significantly.

Incorporating fresh or dried herbs, such as basil or oregano, into your ricotta mixture can elevate the dish further. They add a depth of flavor that complements the richness of the sauce and cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or roasted mushrooms, for added nutrition and flavor. This versatility not only makes the dish more exciting but also offers a great way to sneak in veggies for picky eaters.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Comfort Food Lasagna Bake:

Ingredients

9 lasagna noodles
2 cups marinara sauce
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start layering!

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your Comfort Food Lasagna Bake:

Prepare the Noodles

Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Make the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth.

Assemble the Lasagna

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Place 3 noodles on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, a third of the mozzarella, and more meat sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with noodles and remaining meat sauce. Top with Parmesan and the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake and Serve

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Comfort Food Lasagna Bake with fresh basil on top!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add some red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or layer in some sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

Preparing this lasagna in advance can save time on busy weeknights. You can assemble the entire dish a day ahead and store it in the fridge, which allows the flavors to meld together before baking. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, consider adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you're putting it in the oven straight from the fridge.

If you're looking to store leftovers or want to make multiple meals at once, this lasagna also freezes beautifully. Slice the assembled but unbaked lasagna into portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until the edges bubbly. If heating individual slices, cut down the time to about 20-25 minutes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with lasagna is ending up with a watery dish. This usually happens when using overly moist sauce or when the noodles are not adequately drained after boiling. To remedy this, make sure to simmer your marinara sauce long enough to thicken before layering it. If you're using ricotta cheese, try draining it in a sieve for about 30 minutes before mixing it with the other ingredients to remove excess moisture.

Overcooked noodles can also be a problem. Aim for al dente noodles, as they will continue to cook while baking in the oven. If using no-boil noodles, ensure you adjust the liquid content as they absorb more moisture than regular noodles. You might want to add a little extra sauce to the layers to accommodate this; just watch the overall balance to avoid an overly soggy lasagna.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes, no-boil noodles are a great option! Just make sure to add extra sauce to keep them moist during baking.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna the night before and refrigerate it. Just add about 10 minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese and sour cream works well as a substitute for ricotta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.